Case report: rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Abstract

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are a prevalent concern among athletes, particularly in high-impact sports. This case report presents the diagnosis, surgical management, and comprehensive rehabilitation of a 17-year-old male athlete with a chronic ACL tear sustained during a futsal competition. The patient reported persistent knee pain, instability, and functional limitations exacerbated by delayed treatment. Diagnosis was confirmed through clinical examination and MRI, revealing a high-grade ACL tear. Surgical reconstruction was performed, followed by a structured rehabilitation program. Post-operative challenges included pain, stiffness, swelling, and quadriceps atrophy, necessitating targeted interventions. Rehabilitation progressed through four phases, focusing on pain management, restoring range of motion, strength, proprioception, and sport-specific skills. Outcome measures, including the KOOS and ACL-RSI, demonstrated significant improvement, enabling the patient to return to sports within six months. Early diagnosis and a phased rehabilitation program were critical for successful recovery. Delayed intervention and absence of pre-surgical rehabilitation posed challenges, underscoring the need for timely management and patient education. Multidisciplinary care and patient compliance were pivotal in achieving optimal outcomes. This case highlights the importance of early intervention, accurate diagnosis, and structured rehabilitation in ACL injury management. Raising awareness among athletes and coaches is essential to prevent delayed treatment and improve recovery trajectories.